The UGC, empowered by Section 4(2) of the Universities Act No. 16 of 1978, as and when required appoints Standing Committees for specific purposes, consisting of such members and with such powers, duties and functions as may be determined by the Commission. The Chairman of each Standing Committee shall be a member of the Commission.

The main role of the Standing Committee on Engineering and Architecture would be to function as the advisory body to UGC and vigorously pursue/promote undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes in Engineering and Architecture in universities.

In this regard the following specific activities will be pursued:

Provide directions and guidance on higher education related to Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying and Town Planning.

Evaluate proposals submitted by universities/Institutes with respect to curriculum reforms for new study programmes, postgraduate programmes and establishment of new Departments/Faculties/Institutes in the said fields and submit recommendations to the Commission.

Function as a catalyst to promote new initiatives and reforms to improve and advance quality and relevance of undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes in the said fields and submit recommendations to the Commission.

Promote networking and strategic partnerships between Universities, professional bodies, chambers and industry related to Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying and Town Planning.